I have been HIV+ since 98'. My initial viral load was 13,676, Cd4 was in the 600s. After beginning treatment w/ Sustiva and Combivir, I have maintained a viral load <50 copies and my Cd4 is still in the 600s. Still on the same meds, I got labs back today, my viral load was 136 copies and CD4 is still in the 600s. Should I consider a resistance test and possibly changing meds?

Response from Dr. Holodniy

This could be an insignificant blip or a real change indicating early failure. The first rule is to repeat the numbers. If it is real and at that level, most labs will not perform resistance tests unless the viral load is > 1,000, mostly because of technical issues. If it is still elevated and climbing above 1,000, then a test and regimen modification is in order. If it is back down below 50, nothing to do.

This forum is designed for educational purposes only, and experts are not rendering medical, mental health, legal or other professional advice or services. If you have or suspect you may have a medical, mental health, legal or other problem that requires advice, consult your own caregiver, attorney or other qualified professional.

Experts appearing on this page are independent and are solely responsible for editing and fact-checking their material. Neither TheBody.com nor any advertiser is the publisher or speaker of posted visitors' questions or the experts' material.

The Body is a service of Remedy Health Media, LLC, 750 3rd Avenue, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10017. The Body and its logos are trademarks of Remedy Health Media, LLC, and its subsidiaries, which owns the copyright of The Body's homepage, topic pages, page designs and HTML code. General Disclaimer: The Body is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided through The Body should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, consult your health care provider.